In a landmark move, Pacific Leaders have officially endorsed the Ocean of Peace Declaration, a visionary initiative first proposed by Fiji’s Prime Minister, Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka, in 2023.
Describing it as a shared vision for the Blue Pacific, Prime Minister Rabuka said the declaration represents a commitment to protect the ocean, the people, and the future of the region.
“The Pacific must always remain a zone of peace, free from conflict and rivalry, where cooperation and respect guide our relationships.”
Signing the declaration, Prime Minister Anthony Albnaese said, “Australia is a proud member of the Pacific family.”
For Fiji, the Ocean of Peace reflects both a duty to safeguard the lifeblood of the islands and a responsibility to lead with humility, unity, and wisdom. Prime Minister Rabuka added:
“Today, Pacific Leaders have spoken with clarity and authority. By this declaration, we bring it together with the Boe Declaration, creating a combined multiplier effect for the benefit of the region.”
The initiative follows a rigorous two-year consultation process through the Pacific Islands Forum, running from 16 August 2023 to 10 September 2025, demonstrating the maturity and commitment of the region’s leaders.
“The Leaders have put their signature to the Declaration. The world knows that we, the Pasifika people, mean business, and it starts here, with us.”
The Ocean of Peace aims to reaffirm the right of the Pacific peoples to peace, ensuring that their homes, waters, food sources, livelihoods, and aspirations remain free from coercion. It sets a high standard of conduct, aligned with the principles of the United Nations Charter, and underscores the unity of Pacific nations as central to the success of the initiative.
“Our silence must never be misread for emptiness or weakness,” PM Rabuka warned.
“While we might be small, our determination and faith are the very source of our being and resolve. Together, we must ensure our ocean remains a source of life and harmony for generations to come.”
Prime Minister Albanese also highlighted the significance of regional cooperation. “Solomon Islands is an important neighbour to Australia. Today, Prime Minister Manele and I spoke about the importance of the Pacific Islands Forum and ways to make it stronger.”
“When we work together as a family, our whole region is stronger.”
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